Introduction

If you have a sweet potato that has begun to sprout, don't throw it away! You can easily plant the sprouted sweet potato and grow your own sweet potatoes for cooking and enjoying. In this article, I will guide you on how to plant a sprouted sweet potato.

Preparing the Sweet Potato

Begin by finding a sweet potato that has sprouted. Look for a potato that has small offshoots or "eyes" growing from it. Before planting, make sure to cut each sprout from the sweet potato carefully, using a sharp knife.

Preparing the Soil

Sweet potatoes need well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. You can create your own soil mix by mixing compost, peat moss, and sand. Alternatively, you can purchase potting soil from your local garden center. Prepare the soil by filling a large container with soil mix or prepare a garden bed by digging a hole that is twice as wide and deep as the sweet potato.

Planting the Sweet Potato

If planting in a container, fill the container with soil mix, leaving room for the sweet potato. Place the sweet potato in the center of the container with the sprouted side facing up. Cover the sweet potato with soil mix, leaving only the sprouts exposed. If planting in a garden bed, place the sweet potato in the hole with the sprouted side facing up. Cover the sweet potato with soil mix, leaving only the sprouts exposed. Water the soil well.

Caring for the Sweet Potato

Keep the soil moist by watering regularly. Sweet potatoes need at least 1 inch of water per week. If planted in a container, make sure to drain the excess water from the bottom of the container to prevent root rot. Fertilize the sweet potato with a balanced fertilizer every 2-3 weeks. Keep the container or garden bed in a warm, sunny location.

Harvesting the Sweet Potatoes

Sweet potatoes are ready to harvest when the leaves of the plant begin to turn yellow and die back. This usually occurs 100-150 days after planting. Carefully dig up the sweet potatoes from the soil, being careful not to damage them. Allow the sweet potatoes to dry in a warm, well-ventilated area for several weeks.

Conclusion

Planting a sprouted sweet potato is an easy and rewarding way to grow your own sweet potatoes. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can enjoy the sweet rewards of growing your own sweet potatoes.